Colorado Matters

Emergency physician, Dr. Emmy Betz, wants parents to talk with their kids about guns and mental health to prevent suicide deaths. Then, a GAO report raises concerns over the decision to move Space Command from Colorado Springs. Plus, the prize money for the Colorado Women’s Open will finally match that of the Men’s Open. And, “Runner’s High” explores how athletes use recreational cannabis.

Journalist Dave Cullen has examined school shootings and their aftermath in his books “Columbine” and “Parkland.” Now, he’s reporting on the misunderstood history of gun laws. Then, even when people experiencing homelessness get housing, it doesn’t end tensions in the neighborhood. And, a school desegregation case in Colorado– nearly lost to history.

Fertility treatments like IVF can cost tens of thousands of dollars. A new state law may help couples with some of that hardship, but there will still be challenges. Then, what Colorado’s doing to improve behavioral health care. Also, the podcast, Wild Thing, examines nuclear energy in the age of climate change. And, remembering Dusty Saunders.

With the unofficial start of summer, we spend today’s show outside. First, a trek that (almost) leads to Hanging Lake, where trail and bridge repairs are progressing. Plus, we meet the TikTok star known as @fatblackandgettinit at a park in Jefferson County. Then, how not to love the land to death. Also, byways over highways and 1-star national park reviews.

On this Memorial Day, we re-share stories of service and sacrifice, from the Honor Bell that tolls in remembrance of the servicemen and women who died defending the U.S. to a thought-provoking battle that reflects the often untold trauma of war.

Pete and Ty Chandler, of Boulder, talk about a life-changing visit to one the 26 US veterans’ cemeteries abroad. Then, historian Benjamin Brands on how these cemeteries came to be. Later, a new film about fighter pilots’ dangerous, top-secret mission in Vietnam. And, Telluride singer-songwriter Emily Scott Robinson remembers her cousin, a late Army Ranger.

Children’s Hospital psychologist Jenna Glover has advice on talking to kids about mass shootings. Then, Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson predicts a hot, dry summer. And, a Denver jury’s $14 million award to George Floyd protesters could change the playbook for demonstrators nationwide. Plus, as wildfires worsen, there’s a firefighter shortage.

Two years ago today, George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer. His death sparked a racial reckoning across the U.S. and protests calling for police reform and accountability. In Denver, some of those protests turned violent, and a federal jury recently found police used excessive force against demonstrators. CPR’S race, diversity and equity reporter Elaine Tassy sat down with three people who were hurt.